Hi, I'm Marea. I am a mum, a wife, a friend, a small business owner and an Orange Local. My heart belongs to Orange. I grew up here and like many always wanted to get out there an explore the world. After school, I ventured off to live in Canberra and Sydney, exploring new opportunities, experiencing life in different cities, and traveling the world.
Ultimately, I knew I would return here to settle down because there's no place quite like home. Orange is where I wanted to raise my family. For me, this is more than just a place to live; it’s a place where roots grow deep, and where I’m committed to helping our community thrive.
But my love for Orange goes beyond what it is today—I’m passionate about what it can become. I want to see our city grow, but in a way that ensures future generations will thrive. Sustainable growth is key, and I’m committed to making that vision a reality.
Running for council is the natural next step for me. After almost a decade of hands-on experience and deep commitment to the people of our community, I'm ready to take my dedication to the next level. My journey in community services, especially in the disability sector, has been more than just a career—it's a calling. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with individuals and families, helping them navigate life’s challenges with dignity and respect. My business, AccessLife Support Services, is a testament to this commitment, empowering those living with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives.
As the mother of a young family, I understand firsthand what other young families in Orange want—because I want the same things. We all want safe, vibrant spaces where our children can play and grow, places where they can explore, learn, and build friendships in a nurturing environment. We need strong support systems that reflect the diversity of our community, ensuring that every family, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the resources and services they need to thrive.
But beyond that, we’re looking for opportunities—opportunities for our children to receive a quality education close to home, for our careers to grow without sacrificing time with our families, and for us to enjoy the unique lifestyle that Orange offers. We want our city to grow, but not at the expense of its character. We cherish the blend of small-town charm with modern amenities, and we’re committed to preserving that balance as we move forward.
I’m ready to be the voice that people in Orange need, ensuring that our perspectives are heard and valued in the decisions that shape our future. I know what it’s like to want the best for our families and our city, and I’m determined to advocate for the changes and improvements that will make Orange an even better place to live for generations to come. Whether it's pushing for more family-friendly infrastructure, advocating for accessible services, or ensuring that our growth is sustainable and inclusive, I’m here to represent the needs and dreams of our young families in every decision made by the council.
I’m also involved in raising awareness and driving action on critical issues like domestic and family abuse. In just the past few months, I’ve organised two significant rallies, bringing our community together to stand up against violence. These experiences have fueled my passion for creating a safer, more inclusive Orange.
I also volunteer at Ronald McDonald House Central West on a regular basis, It’s a humbling experience that reminds me of the importance of community support and the difference we can make when we come together.
I’m not just someone who talks about change—I make it happen. Whether it’s advocating for vulnerable populations, running successful community-focused businesses, or rallying the community around vital causes, I’ve proven that I can turn passion into action. Running for council is about taking this dedication to the next level, where I can influence decisions that shape our city. With a fierce commitment to justice and inclusivity, I’m ready to bring my experience, passion, and proven track record to the table to help Orange thrive.
We acknowledge the Wiradjuri people, the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present, and emerging, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters, and culture. We acknowledge the important contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples make to our community and commit to working together to build a better future for all.